By Dr. Sunday de John
Hon. Adut Salva Kiir Mayardit and Hon. Monica Achol Abel Aguek, in my view, represent two distinct forms of rising female visibility. The former is rising through legacy, integrity, accountability, and empathy, and the latter rose through a personal journey premised on the ambition to serve the public.
The outcry that the two are only rising because of their big names is somewhat misplaced. Having a name does not equate to leadership. The two have on many occasions portrayed selfless dedication to public service as reflected in their local responsibilities.
Hon. Adut’s dedication to public service has roots in the ASK foundation. Monica Achol’s public life is based on her commitment to serving the citizens of Lakes State. Both of them have achieved tangible results. However, true leadership is measured by contribution, accountability, and results.
In spite of that, the duo in question is facing significant criticism and distractions from various voices. Their leading critics are women. Their critics have created channels that they are using to torment them. They are making claims that the two have stolen the national resources without exhibiting any evidence or supporting points. Others are attributing certain big decisions made by the president to them. This stage is early.
It is advisable for critics to exercise patience and give them some time, as their efforts could potentially lead to the restoration of peace in the country. Women are peacemakers; the two can expedite certain processes. Who knows, they might be working towards the acquittal and release of Dr. Riek Machar Teny Dhurgon and other unjustly detained prisoners. Perhaps they can change the country’s direction in a positive way.
For these reasons, South Sudanese should take a moment to silence the noise, observe, and then judge. The judgement of these two young women should not come early before they start their work. Judging too early is always a wrong way of doing things, and nations don’t work that way. Judgment might be too loud, but patience is always wiser. History will not be silent on them. As others have noted, history will judge them harshly if they are a source of national torment and favorably if they perform well.
We expect much from you, Hon. Adut and Hon. Achol. Leadership is in the work you do to the satisfaction of the subjects. It is not about personal joy; it is about selflessness.
I also know that Hon. Aleu Ayieny Aleu’s wise counsel to you (Hon. Adut) remains valid; he urged you to take national responsibility seriously, which is a vital task. He advised you to separate yourself from the businesspeople you were collaborating with in the market and to refrain from involving them in politics. Those engaged in the market are often not suited for political roles, and politicians are plentiful. If you choose to disregard them, as Dr. Benjamin Bol Mel did, you must be prepared to bear the consequences.
Till then, yours truly, Mr. Teetotaler!
